In a recent ceremony for the awarding of national medals and honors in the People’s Republic of China, General Secretary Xi Jinping emphasized the need for the entire party and all ethnic groups in the nation to draw inspiration from heroic figures. He urged unity and perseverance, calling for a collective effort to contribute to the great cause of national strength. “Great times call for great spirit,” he noted, asserting that admirable accomplishments require exemplary role models. In this new era, party members and leaders should follow the paths of heroes, embody their spirits, and extract strength from their examples. They must remain committed to their ideals, uphold their original missions, and take responsibility as they contribute significantly to the construction of a powerful nation and the rejuvenation of the Chinese people.
When considering national aspirations, patriotism should be a lifelong belief rooted deeply in one’s soul. It thrives on emotion and vigor, driving individuals to act courageously. Take Baiyika Keleidibeike, a recipient of the “People’s Guardian” award, whose family has dedicated over 70 years of unwavering love, loyalty, and commitment to protecting China’s western borders. Similarly, Wang Yongzhi, awarded the “Republic Medal,” has devoted his life to defense research and manned space missions, playing a vital role in China’s remarkable advancements in aerospace. Thus, we must cultivate a strong sense of responsibility, connecting our personal dreams with the nation’s future and the fate of our people. By dedicating our true passions and relentless efforts, we embody the spirit of patriotism through every drop of sweat and every step forward.
Moreover, patriotism is not merely about rhetoric; it must be grounded in solid skills and definitive actions to have real persuasive power. In an era of rapid development, failing to engage in continuous learning can render one ineffective. Strengthening practical skills, maintaining a “zero-based” mindset, and actively engaging with the grassroots will help build competence. We should confront challenges directly, prioritize addressing pressing issues, and be open to learning from the people, harnessing their insights to acquire new skills and refine our abilities. Our approach should combine comprehensive and targeted learning, adapting our skills to the immediate needs encountered in the core areas of reform and development.
Ultimately, realizing our dreams requires relentless effort. Notable figures like Wang Xiaomo, the “Father of China’s Early Warning Aircraft,” craftsman Xu Zhenchao, and “cave doctor” Lu Shengmei clearly demonstrate this commitment. They treat their professions as a lifelong mission, embodying resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles for the sake of national progress. To align with the party’s approach of serving the people, we must focus on the pressing concerns raised by citizens, offering more initiatives that enhance their well-being and sense of security. We must also practice a more beneficial view of achievements, prioritizing the welfare of the public, and actively engaging in roles that provide tangible benefits to the community.
By honoring and aspiring to be heroes ourselves, we contribute to the emergence of more heroes. Party members and leaders should consciously aspire to the examples set by these heroes, integrating patriotism, national ambition, and the spirit of service into their very being. They should strive to advance alongside the nation, sharing in its destiny and working in solidarity with the people, aiming to be diligent participants, pioneering thinkers, and committed contributors to the pursuit of a modernized China.
